In order to comprehend the present and envision the future, we must understand the past. Examines the historic origins of several global conflicts, both regionally and thematically, so that we may better comprehend the past and envision the future. Historic themes such as famine, ethnic cleansing, terrorism and dictatorship are examined from a political, economic and cultural perspective. Discusses conflicts in the Middle East, nuclear tensions between India and Pakistan and the ethnic nationalist strife that continues to haunt Serbia and Croatia, among other regions. Discusses how these issues impact our own lives and why we should care. Falls. (PPDI)